Levothyroxine: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement. It is a prescription medicine used for hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and goitre. In Pakistan it is available as tablets, made by 3 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Levothyroxine works
Levothyroxine is a man-made form of thyroxine (T4), the main hormone produced by the thyroid gland. The body converts it into the active hormone T3, which controls how fast the body uses energy, restoring normal metabolism.
What is Levothyroxine used for?
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and goitre
Levothyroxine is used to replace thyroid hormone when the thyroid gland does not make enough, a condition called hypothyroidism. Low thyroid hormone can cause tiredness, weight gain, feeling cold, constipation, dry skin and low mood. It is also used for some types of goitre and after thyroid surgery. Treatment is usually lifelong.
Side effects of Levothyroxine
At the right dose, Levothyroxine rarely causes side effects. If the dose is too high, you may notice:
- Palpitations or a fast heartbeat
- Tremor
- Sweating or feeling hot
- Trouble sleeping
- Weight loss
- Diarrhoea
Seek urgent help for chest pain, a fast or irregular heartbeat, or signs of an allergic reaction.
Precautions and warnings
- Take it on an empty stomach, usually before breakfast, at the same time each day.
- Keep a gap between it and iron, calcium or antacids, which reduce its absorption.
- Regular TSH blood tests guide the dose, so do not change it yourself.
- Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, diabetes or adrenal problems.
- If you become pregnant, tell your doctor promptly, as the dose often needs adjusting.
Frequently asked questions about Levothyroxine
What is the price of Levothyroxine in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Levothyroxine products currently in stock range from Rs 286 to Rs 527 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Thyronorm 25mcg 100s at Rs 286. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Levothyroxine are available in Pakistan?
Levothyroxine is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Thyronorm (Abbott Laboratories (Pakistan) Ltd) and Thyroxine (Glaxo Smithkline Ltd).Do I need a prescription for Levothyroxine?
Yes. Levothyroxine is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.
Can Levothyroxine be used during pregnancy?
If you become pregnant, tell your doctor promptly, as the dose often needs adjusting.
Are all Levothyroxine brands the same?
Brands that contain the same amount of Levothyroxine in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.
Levothyroxine brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 7 products containing Levothyroxine from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
